Cefpodoxime Proxetil

General Description: An oral cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat many common bacterial infections in dogs and cats (ex. ear, bladder and skin infections). Typically, you only need to give cefpodoxime once daily. Cefprodoxime is available as 100 mg and 200 mg tablets or as an oral suspension.

What is this drug?

3 rd generation cephalosporin; an antibiotic
Given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:

Useful broad spectrum antibiotic most often prescribed for common and uncomplicated infections
Especially useful against many skin infections
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?

Use with caution in pets with kidney failure or a history of seizures
Use with caution in breeding, pregnant or nursing animals
Pets whom have had previous allergic reactions to penicillin, other cephalosporins or antibiotics
Directions:

Give medication as directed by your veterinarian. It is usually given once a day.

Missed doses reduce the effectiveness of therapy.

Read and follow the label carefully.

Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed.

Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian directs. Call ahead for refills.

For liquids, shake well before accurately measuring the dose.

May be given on a full or empty stomach.

Ideally, give the medication at the same time daily.

What if a dose is missed?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.

What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?

Talk to your veterinarian about:

When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
Risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:

If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
If your pet has experienced kidney disease now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medicines can be given together.
If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:

Store tablets and powder in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.

Once reconstituted, the oral suspension is stable for two weeks (refrigeration is recommended). Shake well before using.

Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.

Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.

Pet owners who are allergic to penicillin and/or other antibiotics should avoid handling this drug.

Potential side effects:

This medication is usually well tolerated by dogs and cats and is commonly used for several weeks
Vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite may be experienced
If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian
Can this drug be given with other drugs?